Trying to take my mind off the anxiety of going in to tonight's game... I've started to compile my list of obvious stand-alone movies that should have never had sequels.

1.) The Matrix (1999)

Reasoning: The original Matrix script almost seems like somebody else wrote it and the Wachowski Bros got a hold of it and turned it into a feature film. The second and third films planned congruently offer nothing of substance to expand on the original plot. The story is stupid, and it's all about the action and special effects. The first film is a fantastic stand-alone movie that leaves the viewer to determine how Neo frees others, and fights for humanity.

2.) Terminator (1984)

Reasoning: I know that this will get some flack, but the original Terminator horror/sci-fi mix is one of those "perfect blends," of suspense/thriller and horror. A machine endlessly stalking a young girl for reasons unknown (until Michael Biehn shows up and explains it all). It was original, and it was downright scary. This is my favorite Schwarzaneggar role. Terminator 2 is good, but it's just a cash-in action flick, and nothing else. T3 and TS just expand on the original story, but don't add much for me.

3.) The Godfather (1972) & The Godfather II (1974)

Reasoning: The Godfather saga, obviously, is one of the classic cinema pieces in American film history. Parts I and II give an in-depth look at organized crime, no matter how accurate it may be, and are both excellent pieces of storytelling. Debate on Godfather II being better than the original seems to have quelled, with most "movie pundits" agreeing that the Second film's flashbacks really add to the depth of the storyline. As for the 3rd one, ugh...what a piece. Pure cash-in flick nearly 20 years after the original. Nothing but garbage.

Certainly agree with 1 and 3 (altho I remain a supporter of the first Godfather movie being just a tiny tick 'better' than the second, but I regard T2 as every bit as good as the original. And it was an important film in movie history, as it ushered in a new age in the way movies were made.

To the list, I'd add: Jaws, the fourth Indiana Jones movie, Star Wars Eps I-III, Jurassic Park 2 & 3 (altho the third one is actually an enjoyable popcorn film), Blues Brothers, Caddyshack, Ghostbusters, M*A*S*H (I'm considering the TV series the sequel.... which was a terrible affront to the film)